Egret encounters a stubborn cormorant.

Just north of Dublin along the west side of the Scioto River is a small park named Twin Lakes that’s a true gem for bird watching. A favorite spot for many birds is a fallen log that juts out into the pond from the north shore. Geese, Kingfishers, Herons, Mallards, and other species can be found here at different times.Double Crested Cormorant, Great Egret-O'Shaughnessy Reservoir-120928-4928 x 3264-9982

For the most part they get along, but last fall I watched one cormorant get very territorial.

Double Crested Cormorant, Great Egret-O'Shaughnessy Reservoir-120928-4928 x 3264-9986

This Great White Egret thought there was room enough for two on the fallen tree, but the cormorant wasn’t in a mood to share.

Double Crested Cormorant, Great Egret-O'Shaughnessy Reservoir-120928-4928 x 3264-9991

Though the egret appears twice the size of the cormorant, it’s all feathers. Despite standing three feet tall, Great White Egrets max-out at around 3 lbs. The cormorant is a stocky 4-5 lbs.

Double Crested Cormorant, Great Egret-O'Shaughnessy Reservoir-120928-4928 x 3264-0001

Too fragile to risk injury, the egret saves its lethal beak for fish, rodents, snakes, and other creatures that won’t fight back.

Double Crested Cormorant, Great Egret-O'Shaughnessy Reservoir-120928-4928 x 3264-0002